Dog Sunglasses Buying Guide

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Yes, dog sunglasses do exist and like humans they are a helpful way to
protect your dog's eyes. Sunglasses for dogs and other protective
dog glasses were primarily for working dogs that needed protection from
fire, debris, dust and wind. Recently, canine owners with non-working dogs have realized that
the same benefits that human sunglasses have, such as UV protection,
are also good for their dog when walking outside. When purchasing glasses, be sure to follow
the sizing guidelines listed below. Never fit glasses indoors
since glasses darken a room. Instead have your dog smell them
first, and then gently place them on outdoors in the sunlight."

Sunglasses may look like just a fashion accessory, but shades do
more than make your dog appear to be a style icon. For working dogs,
eye wear has been commonplace as a way to keep search and rescue dogs
from getting eye injuries. They often come in contact with dangerous
conditions such as smoke from fires or debris which pose a risk to the
eye. While owners of working dogs see eye wear as standard operating
procedure, now owners of non-working dogs are starting to "see" the
benefit. This is particularly true if a dog is frequently
outdoors in the sun, is often runs on the beach and can get blowing
sand in the eyes, dog's with sensitive eyes, or if a dog has a eye
related medical problem that requires some form of protection.

Sunglasses for dogs are closer in appearance to goggles used by
humans for sporting events than human sunglasses.

Dog Sunglasses Like this pair FromDogglesAre Perfect for Basic Eye Protection When Outdoors, Walking, or Going
for a Car Ride

Canine Sunglass Features to Look For

Like human glasses, look for the following features when buying sunglasses for dogs or Doggles:

Shatterproof (polycarbonate)

Anti-fog lens

UV Protection

Adjustable elastic head and chin straps

Size Chart

One issue with choosing a pair for your dog is getting the right
fit. To determine the right size, take two measurements:

Take the "back strap and frame length" measurement by measuring
across the eyes and around the ears.

Take the "chin strap" measurement by starting measurement just
under one ear, go under the chin, and buck up to under the other ear.

Follow the guidelines in the following chart to match your guidelines
to the right sunglasses for your pet:

Sunglasses for Dogs Size Chart

Size of Sunglasses for Dogs

Dog Size

Back Strap and Frame Length

Chin Strap

Breed Examples

Extra Small Dog Sunglasses

1 to 10 pounds

5 to 13 inches

3 to 7 inches

Chihuahua, Pom

Small Dog Sunglasses

9 to 25 pounds

12 to 20 inches

4 to 8 inches

Beagle, Westie

Medium Dog Sunglasses

20 to 60 pounds

15 to 25 inches

5 to 11 inches

Dalmation, Border Collie

Large Dog Sunglasses

50 to 100 pounds

18 to 30 inches

6 to 16 inches

German Shepherd, Labrador
Retriever

Extra Large Dog Sunglasses

100 plus pounds

22 to 45 inches

11 to 26 inches

Large Rottweiler, St. Bernard

When trying on sunglasses for dogs or doggles (doggie goggles) make sure
that each eye piece rests comfortably on the eye. The goggle part
of the glasses should also be deep enough to accommodate dogs with
bulging eyes.

Dog Sunglass Brands

The most popular brand of canine sunglasses is Doggles.
Typically, they cost under $20 and are discounted on sites such as Amazon.com.
The site also includes consumer reviews of each type, greatly
simplifying the buying process. They are also good about returns.

Introducing Dog Goggles or Sunglasses to Your Pet

It's important to familiarize your dog with the sunglasses before
putting them on. Do not do this indoors as the goggles will appear even
darker to the dog inside the house. Instead, have your dog sniff the
glasses. Provide a treat or two associating the doggie glasses
with something pleasurable or rewarding. After your dog is
familiar slip them on. If your dog doesn't like them, take them
off, and repeat the procedure the following day.

Have a Dog Sunglasses, Goggles or Doggles Related Question for our Vet?

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